Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Comstock Park, MI

Photo of Alayna Boomgaard, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alayna Boomgaard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
My treatment approach is trauma-informed and incorporates aspects of Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, attachment theory, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in helping individuals rise above traumatic experiences. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting people with overcoming self-harm and suicidality. I also have experience with, and am passionate about, helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, emotional dysregulation, and identity-related concerns.
My treatment approach is trauma-informed and incorporates aspects of Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, attachment theory, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in helping individuals rise above traumatic experiences. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting people with overcoming self-harm and suicidality. I also have experience with, and am passionate about, helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, emotional dysregulation, and identity-related concerns.
(616) 504-2359 View (616) 504-2359
Photo of Steven Adam Ward, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Adam Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
Chances are, you've been here before. The feeling that things can't change, at least not for the better. The anxiety that is interrupting your sleep or work stress that follows you home and has you sniping at your loved ones instead of enjoying your time with them. Whatever it is that you're experiencing that has you wondering, "can therapy actually help me?", you've probably been through something like it before. I have too. As a clinician with over 10 years of experience helping others, and over 20 years of experience on the client side of the table, I can answer that question with a definitive "Yes!".
Chances are, you've been here before. The feeling that things can't change, at least not for the better. The anxiety that is interrupting your sleep or work stress that follows you home and has you sniping at your loved ones instead of enjoying your time with them. Whatever it is that you're experiencing that has you wondering, "can therapy actually help me?", you've probably been through something like it before. I have too. As a clinician with over 10 years of experience helping others, and over 20 years of experience on the client side of the table, I can answer that question with a definitive "Yes!".
(616) 730-8296 x2003 View (616) 730-8296 x2003
Photo of Steven Ward, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
My name is Steven Ward and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a therapist for over 10 years and an intermittent therapy participant for 30 years. I believe in therapy and its ability to help others become their best selves. I have known since the first time therapy made a significant difference in my life, that I wanted to devote my life, time, and energy to serving and helping others by becoming a therapist. I received an undergraduate degree from Spring Arbor in Management and Organizational Development and utilized this to work my way through my Masters in Counseling, also from Spring Arbor University.
My name is Steven Ward and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a therapist for over 10 years and an intermittent therapy participant for 30 years. I believe in therapy and its ability to help others become their best selves. I have known since the first time therapy made a significant difference in my life, that I wanted to devote my life, time, and energy to serving and helping others by becoming a therapist. I received an undergraduate degree from Spring Arbor in Management and Organizational Development and utilized this to work my way through my Masters in Counseling, also from Spring Arbor University.
(616) 585-0848 View (616) 585-0848
Photo of Taryn Sinclaire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taryn Sinclaire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Comstock Park, MI 49321  (Online Only)
Due to telehealth, I can take clients from anywhere in Michigan. I enjoy working with clients who are up for a little work and challenge. I have a strong belief in the idea that therapy isn't something that is done to us, but rather something we must take an active role in to see any true progress. I view therapy as another way to add more tools to our toolbox in an effort to better ourselves. My goal is that by working together, you will learn things in a manner that allows you to function at your best regardless of what life throws at you.
Due to telehealth, I can take clients from anywhere in Michigan. I enjoy working with clients who are up for a little work and challenge. I have a strong belief in the idea that therapy isn't something that is done to us, but rather something we must take an active role in to see any true progress. I view therapy as another way to add more tools to our toolbox in an effort to better ourselves. My goal is that by working together, you will learn things in a manner that allows you to function at your best regardless of what life throws at you.
(616) 681-5970 View (616) 681-5970

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mark Douglas, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I specialize in mood and personality disorders, using a relational style as the foundation of my practice and implementing DBT, CBT, and psychodynamic principles.
Welcome to the start of your mental health journey! I view it as one of my life's greatest privileges to witness a variety of human experiences and to hold a space for self-acceptance to grow.
I specialize in mood and personality disorders, using a relational style as the foundation of my practice and implementing DBT, CBT, and psychodynamic principles.
Welcome to the start of your mental health journey! I view it as one of my life's greatest privileges to witness a variety of human experiences and to hold a space for self-acceptance to grow.
(616) 421-9791 View (616) 421-9791
Photo of Emrielle VanCleave, MA, LLMFT, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emrielle VanCleave
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LLMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49501  (Online Only)
My treatment focuses on parts work and is highly influenced by Structural Dissociation, Gestalt, Psychodynamic/analytic, DBT, IFS, and EFT.
As an integrative therapist, I’m here to help you feel whole again. If you struggle with complex trauma, dissociation, a personality disorder, or other experiences that are difficult to let go of, I’m here to help you reconnect with all your parts and come together as a whole person, whether this be in individual, couples, or family sessions. Through our treatment together, you’ll be able to recognize the resiliency within you that is needed to take on life’s challenges and heal from those challenges you have already faced.
My treatment focuses on parts work and is highly influenced by Structural Dissociation, Gestalt, Psychodynamic/analytic, DBT, IFS, and EFT.
As an integrative therapist, I’m here to help you feel whole again. If you struggle with complex trauma, dissociation, a personality disorder, or other experiences that are difficult to let go of, I’m here to help you reconnect with all your parts and come together as a whole person, whether this be in individual, couples, or family sessions. Through our treatment together, you’ll be able to recognize the resiliency within you that is needed to take on life’s challenges and heal from those challenges you have already faced.
(810) 269-4152 View (810) 269-4152
Photo of Gail Gretchen Johnson, MSW, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Gretchen Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Teaching DBT skills to groups.
Working to resolve anxiety and trauma, especially "stacked trauma". I have a variety of approaches which are frequently useful to people who have had recent or early traumas. Anxiety is a normal reaction to abnormal experience. Our work focuses on bringing up the harmful event, processing it, and laying it to rest.
Teaching DBT skills to groups.
Working to resolve anxiety and trauma, especially "stacked trauma". I have a variety of approaches which are frequently useful to people who have had recent or early traumas. Anxiety is a normal reaction to abnormal experience. Our work focuses on bringing up the harmful event, processing it, and laying it to rest.
(616) 920-8110 View (616) 920-8110
Photo of Bradley Rudolph, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradley Rudolph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Brad utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), solution-focused, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and more.
Brad Rudolph is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 3 years of experience working in a variety of roles to gain a more broad understanding of social issues impacting communities and individuals. Brad is passionate about helping people of all ages (11-100+), races, sexualities, and genders. He specializes in helping others process and cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger management, addiction, and major life transitions. Brad completed his Master of Social Work (MSW) at Grand Valley State University of Michigan.
Brad utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), solution-focused, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and more.
Brad Rudolph is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 3 years of experience working in a variety of roles to gain a more broad understanding of social issues impacting communities and individuals. Brad is passionate about helping people of all ages (11-100+), races, sexualities, and genders. He specializes in helping others process and cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger management, addiction, and major life transitions. Brad completed his Master of Social Work (MSW) at Grand Valley State University of Michigan.
(616) 548-6605 View (616) 548-6605
Photo of Stephanie Stoneman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Stoneman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
I have a holistic approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR, with a psycho-dynamic perspective.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan, with 18 years of experience providing therapy in multi-faceted ways. I have worked as a medical social worker, providing therapy for those suffering from a variety of hardships. I have worked as an addictions counselor for those with substance dependence and their families. I specialize in working with other professionals who struggle with mood or substance abuse issues. I have experience treating depression, anxiety/panic, trauma, women's issues, relationship issues, career issues, and those with a combination of physical and mental health issues.
I have a holistic approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR, with a psycho-dynamic perspective.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan, with 18 years of experience providing therapy in multi-faceted ways. I have worked as a medical social worker, providing therapy for those suffering from a variety of hardships. I have worked as an addictions counselor for those with substance dependence and their families. I specialize in working with other professionals who struggle with mood or substance abuse issues. I have experience treating depression, anxiety/panic, trauma, women's issues, relationship issues, career issues, and those with a combination of physical and mental health issues.
(616) 300-2911 View (616) 300-2911
Photo of Jennifer M Alder, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer M Alder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I enjoy using a person centered mixture of CBT, DBT, ACT, & art.
My ideal client would be someone who recognizes that something in their life needs to change whether within themselves or their environment. They may be struggling with difficulties with mood, relationships, trauma, addiction or simply trying to make personal improvements in their lives. They understand that the therapeutic process is a partnership with a willingness to do some personal work while I walk along side them as we work together to create the change in their life they are seeking. I am registered with Better Help and also take a number of private pay clients.
I enjoy using a person centered mixture of CBT, DBT, ACT, & art.
My ideal client would be someone who recognizes that something in their life needs to change whether within themselves or their environment. They may be struggling with difficulties with mood, relationships, trauma, addiction or simply trying to make personal improvements in their lives. They understand that the therapeutic process is a partnership with a willingness to do some personal work while I walk along side them as we work together to create the change in their life they are seeking. I am registered with Better Help and also take a number of private pay clients.
(616) 319-4615 View (616) 319-4615
Photo of Joanna Heinz, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Heinz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49501  (Online Only)
I blend the most effective therapeutic models - CBT, DBT and CRAFT (for family addiction) - customizing evidence-based tools to fit your situation.
Facing life's difficulties? Caring for someone with addiction or mental health struggles? Working through your own challenges with addiction, depression or relationships? Whether you feel overwhelmed, heartbroken, frustrated or stuck, small steps forward can lead to brighter days. From everyday stress, grief and worry, to more serious clinical diagnoses like major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD and trauma, I can help you gain insight and build a skill set that can improve your life and overall coping. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
I blend the most effective therapeutic models - CBT, DBT and CRAFT (for family addiction) - customizing evidence-based tools to fit your situation.
Facing life's difficulties? Caring for someone with addiction or mental health struggles? Working through your own challenges with addiction, depression or relationships? Whether you feel overwhelmed, heartbroken, frustrated or stuck, small steps forward can lead to brighter days. From everyday stress, grief and worry, to more serious clinical diagnoses like major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD and trauma, I can help you gain insight and build a skill set that can improve your life and overall coping. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
(231) 307-7891 View (231) 307-7891
Photo of Sue-Ann Simpson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue-Ann Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Sue-Ann pulls from a variety of modalities, but primarily: Strengths Based, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Sue-Ann Simpson (she/her) is a late diagnosed Autistic therapist who enjoys working with populations that have been historically underserved or marginalized. She believes in the power of empathy, validation, being non-judgmental, and providing unconditional positive regard to create an environment where clients can feel safe, comfortable, and seen.
Sue-Ann pulls from a variety of modalities, but primarily: Strengths Based, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Sue-Ann Simpson (she/her) is a late diagnosed Autistic therapist who enjoys working with populations that have been historically underserved or marginalized. She believes in the power of empathy, validation, being non-judgmental, and providing unconditional positive regard to create an environment where clients can feel safe, comfortable, and seen.
(616) 730-8913 View (616) 730-8913
Photo of Holly Przybylski, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Przybylski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
My treatment is based on psychodynamic, CBT, and DBT models.
Feeling stuck, incomplete, or helpless is a debilitating place to be. I hope to provide a space for individuals to reflect on and experience their whole selves so they can heal. I have years of experience working with individuals from ages 5 to mid-adulthood. I have helped those who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, traumatic grief, complex trauma and PTSD, behavioral issues, parenting, and/or family issues. For children, I offer a playful and engaging approach that is conducive to their level of development.
My treatment is based on psychodynamic, CBT, and DBT models.
Feeling stuck, incomplete, or helpless is a debilitating place to be. I hope to provide a space for individuals to reflect on and experience their whole selves so they can heal. I have years of experience working with individuals from ages 5 to mid-adulthood. I have helped those who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, traumatic grief, complex trauma and PTSD, behavioral issues, parenting, and/or family issues. For children, I offer a playful and engaging approach that is conducive to their level of development.
(616) 236-6524 View (616) 236-6524
Photo of Virginia Martinez, MA, LLP, CTP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Virginia Martinez
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504  (Online Only)
I employ evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.
As a Counseling Psychologist and Certified Trauma Professional, my practice centers on facilitating the transformative journey of healing. I collaborate with clients to co-create a therapeutic environment conducive to exploring and addressing their unique challenges. Utilizing a psychodynamic framework within an integrative approach, I provide a non-judgmental space where clients can navigate issues such as disordered eating, body image concerns, post-traumatic stress, trauma healing, anxiety, and depression.
I employ evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.
As a Counseling Psychologist and Certified Trauma Professional, my practice centers on facilitating the transformative journey of healing. I collaborate with clients to co-create a therapeutic environment conducive to exploring and addressing their unique challenges. Utilizing a psychodynamic framework within an integrative approach, I provide a non-judgmental space where clients can navigate issues such as disordered eating, body image concerns, post-traumatic stress, trauma healing, anxiety, and depression.
(248) 468-1627 View (248) 468-1627
Photo of Eric Nykamp, LMSW, BFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric Nykamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, BFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I am a trained DBT therapist, with decades of experience in inpatient and outpatient settings helping people learn more effective strategies for coping with powerful emotions and relationship difficulties as well as controlling self-harm urges.
Are you exhausted from trying to cope with your mental health challenges, or feeling hopeless as you watch your child struggling? I primarily work with people wrestling with mental-health challenges such as depression/anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges or difficulties coping with cycles of self-harm. I specialize in working with people diagnosed with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) as well as parents of children with BPD or other mental health challenges. I am a LGBTQIA+ welcoming counselor, antiracism educator, and offer Christian counseling if desired. I'm not licensed to provide substance abuse treatment.
I am a trained DBT therapist, with decades of experience in inpatient and outpatient settings helping people learn more effective strategies for coping with powerful emotions and relationship difficulties as well as controlling self-harm urges.
Are you exhausted from trying to cope with your mental health challenges, or feeling hopeless as you watch your child struggling? I primarily work with people wrestling with mental-health challenges such as depression/anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges or difficulties coping with cycles of self-harm. I specialize in working with people diagnosed with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) as well as parents of children with BPD or other mental health challenges. I am a LGBTQIA+ welcoming counselor, antiracism educator, and offer Christian counseling if desired. I'm not licensed to provide substance abuse treatment.
(616) 253-8950 View (616) 253-8950
Photo of Alexandria Schiraldi, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Schiraldi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, MI 49341  (Online Only)
My approach to treatment includes EMDR, CBT, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT and Mindfulness.
I specialize in working with adolescents, families and adults. I offer effective and compassionate treatment for adults struggling with parenting, communication, relationships, anxiety, life balance, anger, depression, and trauma.
My approach to treatment includes EMDR, CBT, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT and Mindfulness.
I specialize in working with adolescents, families and adults. I offer effective and compassionate treatment for adults struggling with parenting, communication, relationships, anxiety, life balance, anger, depression, and trauma.
(616) 236-5350 View (616) 236-5350
Photo of Karen Appleton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Appleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I have received extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy with Adolescents, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Substance Abuse but utilize other eclectic counseling techniques as well, pulling from other orientations as beneficial and necessary.
I am passionate about working with individuals who feel that life is unmanageable and they feel out of step with the world. Often these are individuals with a trauma history, who are struggling with intense emotions or relationships they can’t manage. Feeling "out of step" can lead to feelings of self judgment and isolation. When invited into that space of struggle I will seek to provide a space for you to gain skills, find support to increase connections, safety and individual strength.
I have received extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy with Adolescents, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Substance Abuse but utilize other eclectic counseling techniques as well, pulling from other orientations as beneficial and necessary.
I am passionate about working with individuals who feel that life is unmanageable and they feel out of step with the world. Often these are individuals with a trauma history, who are struggling with intense emotions or relationships they can’t manage. Feeling "out of step" can lead to feelings of self judgment and isolation. When invited into that space of struggle I will seek to provide a space for you to gain skills, find support to increase connections, safety and individual strength.
(616) 345-2869 View (616) 345-2869
Photo of Alison Dault, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Dault
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I most often use DBT skills with IFS and trauma-informed care principles to help people understand themselves, set boundaries, and choose their path.
I usually find myself working with people who know there's something not quite right but aren't sure where to start. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression, and don't know why? Are relationships difficult, or do you feel like you haven't found your people? Has life suddenly just switched to "hard mode"? I especially enjoy working with people who are trying balance work and managing chronic illnesses, fellow social services employees, and LGBTQ+ clients. I love working with neurodivergence!
I most often use DBT skills with IFS and trauma-informed care principles to help people understand themselves, set boundaries, and choose their path.
I usually find myself working with people who know there's something not quite right but aren't sure where to start. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression, and don't know why? Are relationships difficult, or do you feel like you haven't found your people? Has life suddenly just switched to "hard mode"? I especially enjoy working with people who are trying balance work and managing chronic illnesses, fellow social services employees, and LGBTQ+ clients. I love working with neurodivergence!
(616) 512-1627 View (616) 512-1627
Photo of Shelby Cavender, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Cavender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based perspective, and EMDR.
Hello there! As a therapist, I am warm, open, encouraging, and direct. I consider myself an active therapist, combining experience, education, creativity, and sense of humor with a down-to-earth, realistic approach to counseling. I provide a safe space for clients to express themselves honestly, get to understand their true feelings, and working together to figure out how to use that information towards a journey of healing. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, mood disorders, trauma, stress management, life transitions, and health/wellness.
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based perspective, and EMDR.
Hello there! As a therapist, I am warm, open, encouraging, and direct. I consider myself an active therapist, combining experience, education, creativity, and sense of humor with a down-to-earth, realistic approach to counseling. I provide a safe space for clients to express themselves honestly, get to understand their true feelings, and working together to figure out how to use that information towards a journey of healing. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, mood disorders, trauma, stress management, life transitions, and health/wellness.
(616) 426-6687 View (616) 426-6687
Photo of Jordan Stricklen, PsyD, Psychologist
Jordan Stricklen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
These include psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, DBT, and emotion focused couples therapy.
I put great emphasis on developing a strong, safe, and comfortable relationship in therapy where difficult issues can be explored in a trusting environment. My approach to therapy consists of working on two separate but related levels. The first level is, what is getting in the way of life now and what can we do to relieve that suffering together. The second level includes the deeper issues and patterns from a person’s history that are influencing current and long standing concerns. I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, empathic atmosphere where individuals can feel known and cared for in all aspects of their identities.
These include psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, DBT, and emotion focused couples therapy.
I put great emphasis on developing a strong, safe, and comfortable relationship in therapy where difficult issues can be explored in a trusting environment. My approach to therapy consists of working on two separate but related levels. The first level is, what is getting in the way of life now and what can we do to relieve that suffering together. The second level includes the deeper issues and patterns from a person’s history that are influencing current and long standing concerns. I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, empathic atmosphere where individuals can feel known and cared for in all aspects of their identities.
(616) 207-8403 View (616) 207-8403

See more therapy options for Comstock Park

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.